Senior Software Engineer, Tools Animation (Applications)

3 Months ago • 5 Years + • Animation • $158,185 PA - $204,710 PA

Job Summary

Job Description

Pixar seeks a Sr. Software Engineer to design, develop, and maintain new features within its Presto Animation System. This role involves close collaboration with animators and engineers to improve animation production software. Responsibilities include working on diverse projects, defining feature requirements, implementing experimental technology, and presenting work to engineering and animation teams. The ideal candidate possesses strong C++ skills, software engineering expertise, and a passion for working in a creative environment. They will help Pixar continue its legacy of creating high-quality digital animation.
Must have:
  • C++ skills (5+ years)
  • Software design principles
  • Performance optimization
  • Software testing
  • Collaboration with artists
Good to have:
  • 3D applications (Maya, Houdini)
  • Rendering architectures
  • OpenGL
  • GPU technologies
  • Production environments
  • Qt UI framework

Job Details

We work alongside Pixar animators and engineers to design and implement new features within the Presto Animation System to help create the next generation of Pixar films. Presto is Pixar’s industry leading animation production software suite, built from the ground up with an innovative architecture and a well-designed code base. You will be challenged by our production teams to enable Pixar to continue to raise the high bar for what can be achieved in the art of digital animation!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Design, develop, and maintain new features in Presto as part of the Software R&D animation team

  • Work directly with technical and non-technical artists to support their use of Pixar's proprietary filmmaking software

  • Work on a range of projects from small independent efforts to large, collaborative projects with other technical teams

  • Help define the feature requirements for future films during the pre-production process

  • Partner with researchers to implement experimental technology and explore new and innovative ways to meet the software needs of our artists

  • Present your work to the engineering and animation teams

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Demonstrated C++ skills with at least five years professional experience

  • Strong software engineering skills including familiarity with software design principles, performance optimization, and testing

  • A desire to work closely with users in a creative environment

  • Excellent analytical skills that employ your high attention to detail and quality

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent professional experience

  • Familiar with desktop UI framework such as Qt to build rich user interfaces

  • Additional experience that is valuable but not required for this role include 3D applications (e.g., Maya, Houdini), rendering architectures, OpenGL, GPU technologies, and/or production environments

The hiring range for this position in Emeryville is $158,185.00 to $204,710.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors.

Pixar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We know our storytelling is at its best when we include, celebrate and embrace difference. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. We are committed to building a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Pixar participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. | Follow us on X @PixarRecruiting.

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